Location: Wollongong, NSW
Client: Private Owner
Completion Date: January 2025
Design Lead: Jay Francis, Senior Project Designer
Builder: CKS Projects

Project Overview

Francis Building Design was commissioned by a private client to conceptualise and deliver a luxury three-storey residence located on Corrimal Street, in the heart of Wollongong. The brief: to create an architecturally sophisticated home that harmonises with the surrounding medium-density apartments, while offering both seclusion and a serene, light-filled sanctuary.

Design Challenge

Situated in an urban context with a towering three-storey duplex immediately to the north, capturing direct northern sunlight was a critical constraint. Furthermore, the lack of scenic external views necessitated an inward-facing design focused on privacy and internal amenity.

Innovative Solutions

Harnessing Natural Light

• Central living areas were positioned beneath strategically placed light wells and voids, flooding the core of the home with natural daylight.

• Double-height spaces paired with skylights minimised artificial lighting needs while promoting passive heating and cooling.

Architectural Form & Materiality

• Fluid concrete forms and slim slab edges challenge the conventional notion of concrete as a heavy material.

• Steel columns allow for expansive open areas with fewer structural elements, increasing spatial fluidity.

• Shou Sugi Ban – Charred Timber Cladding introduces tactile contrast, reducing visual bulk and requiring minimal upkeep.

• Eco Outdoor Wamberal natural stone and off-form concrete enhance durability against coastal conditions.

Interior Layout & Comfort

• Upper-level bedrooms and second living areas provide acoustic separation and privacy from the active street below.

• A basement garage with eight spaces and two car hoists ensures adequate room for the client’s vintage car collection.

Environmental Performance

• Thoughtful integration of natural ventilation and solar access reduces reliance on mechanical systems.

• Skylights enhance daylight penetration and contribute to energy efficiency.

• Material selections support low-maintenance living and long-term sustainability.

Outcome

The Corrimal Street residence exemplifies how constraints can inspire innovation. This home is a tranquil, light-filled retreat that responds artfully to its urban setting. With bold structural forms softened by elegant material choices, the residence delivers both sustainability and sculptural beauty.

Francis Building Design delivers professional coastal home design services in Wollongong, tailored to suit the unique demands of seaside living. Our qualified designers create homes that maximise views, embrace natural light and withstand coastal conditions with style and structure.

What you get with our coastal home design service:

• Expert knowledge of Wollongong council planning regulations

• Designs that optimise natural airflow, sunlight and ocean outlooks

• Plans built for coastal durability and long-term performance

• Thoughtful layouts matched to your lifestyle and block orientation

• A trusted, award-winning team known for reliability and care

More than 80% of home builds near the coast require a specialist designer to meet compliance and environmental standards.

Wollongong’s coastal suburbs have seen over 14% growth in housing demand, increasing the value of custom-designed properties in the region.

We put our clients first with helpful guidance, honest timelines and practical, creative plans. From concept to final drawings, you’re working with experienced professionals who know how to design homes that fit your vision and the coast.

Contact us today to start your coastal home journey with a top-rated building design team near Wollongong.